Top 5 PST Repair Tools for Windows 10/11

Having issues with your PST files? Let's delve into some tools to fix your Outlook data.

Outlook is a premier email service utilized extensively by students and professionals worldwide. It is known for its speed and convenience, which renders it a preferred choice among institutions and professional settings.

However, the issue arises when the PST file, the extension saved by Outlook, becomes corrupted or is lost. This is where PST repair tools prove to be an exceptional solution for many users. So, which are the best ones out there? Today, we will explore the top 5 free PST repair tools and delve into the reasons behind this problem. Let's begin.

Common Causes of PST File Corruption

PST, or Personal Storage Table, refers to the file format used by Outlook to store data. Primarily associated with Outlook, this format is also utilized by other Microsoft applications to save essential information such as calendar entries, contacts, emails, and messages.

However, when the PST file becomes corrupted, users often lose all the aforementioned data, including messages, calendars, and more. So, what leads to such corruption? What are some common reasons people lose their PST files and, subsequently, their vital information?

Let's categorize them into two groups:

PST File Corruption Due to Hardware Issues

The first and possibly the most common cause of PST data corruption is due to hardware failure. This can encompass three primary types of errors and losses related to hardware, which are: 1. Hard Disk Failure: The storage device where your PST (Personal Storage Table) file is located might encounter physical damage or malfunction, leading to data corruption. This can result from issues like bad sectors, damaged read-write heads, or a failing motor. 2. Power Issues: Sudden power outages or voltage fluctuations can disrupt the process of reading or writing data to the PST file, causing corruption. Inadequate power supply or an unreliable power source can lead to incomplete data transfer, leading to corruption. 3.不当的系统关机或重启: 如果在Outlook处理PST文件时发生意外的系统关闭（例如，由于系统崩溃、蓝屏或强制重启），数据可能在写入过程中受损。这可能导致文件结构损坏，从而导致数据不可用。 To prevent such issues, it's essential to regularly back up important PST files, maintain reliable hardware, and ensure a stable power supply. Additionally, using updated antivirus software and keeping your operating system and Outlook application up-to-date can also help minimize the risk of corruption.

1. Network Issues
2. Bad Sectors on Hard Drive
3. Sudden Power Failure

Network issues can lead to the computer incorrectly reading or corrupting the file if the connection is disrupted. A sudden power outage will interrupt the read/write process, ultimately damaging all the data within the PST file.

Lastly, a bad sector on a storage device is inevitably going to lead to such issues. It will not only result in Outlook functioning improperly but also render PST files irreparably corrupted and unreadable.

PST File Corruption Due to Software Reasons Corruption in PST (Personal Storage Table) files can occur due to various software-related issues. These may include: 1. **Outdated Software**: Using an older version of Microsoft Outlook or having outdated Windows operating system can lead to compatibility issues, causing PST file corruption. 2. **Malware or Virus Attacks**: Malicious software like viruses, trojans, or spyware can infiltrate and damage PST files, disrupting their normal functioning. 3. **Improper System Shutdowns**: Sudden power outages, forceful shutdowns, or system crashes can interrupt the saving process of PST files, leading to corruption. 4. **Software Bugs or Glitches**: Inherent bugs or glitches in Outlook or other related software can cause PST file corruption during operations like sending, receiving, or saving emails. 5. **Over-sized PST Files**: When PST files exceed their maximum size limit, they can become prone to corruption. Microsoft sets a limit on the size of PST files, usually 2 GB for Outlook 2002 and earlier, and 50 GB for Outlook 2016 and later. 6. **Header Corruption**: The header of a PST file contains crucial information about its structure. If it gets corrupted, the entire file becomes inaccessible. 7. **Inconsistent Data**: Incomplete or interrupted data transfer, such as during import/export operations, can lead to inconsistencies in PST files, causing corruption. 8. **Third-Party Tools**: Sometimes, using non-Microsoft tools for managing PST files can result in corruption due to compatibility or functionality issues. To prevent or fix PST file corruption, it's essential to keep your software updated, use reliable antivirus protection, regularly back up important data, and avoid exceeding PST file size limits. In case of corruption, you can try built-in Outlook repair tools like 'Scanpst.exe' (Inbox Repair Tool) or seek professional data recovery solutions.

The second type of PST file corruption can result from software-related issues. In this case, the PST files become corrupted, but there is no involvement of hardware. What might be the root causes behind this? There are typically two main reasons:

• Malicious Software
• File System Recovery

A malicious virus attack can corrupt all types of files, so it's no surprise that it can also affect PST files. Alternatively, an improperly recovered system file can also lead to this issue. The two primary reasons why PST files become unreadable are likely due to these two events.

Tip: Recover Lost PST Files for Free (Recommended)

Even if a PST file is no longer readable, that doesn't necessarily mean it's beyond recovery. So, how do you go about recovering corrupted PST files when they contain crucial information? Furthermore, how can you recover them for free?

The solution lies in utilizing a professional recovery tool, preferably a third-party application. One of the most excellent tools for this purpose is tools Data Recovery Wizard. What sets it apart as a top choice for retrieving lost files? Let's explore further.

Brief Introduction to Data Recovery Wizard Software Data Recovery Wizard Pro is a powerful and user-friendly software solution designed to assist users in retrieving lost or deleted files from various storage devices. This advanced tool effectively scans and recovers data that may have been accidentally erased, damaged due to system crashes, or lost due to virus infections. Key Features: 1. Comprehensive File Recovery: The software supports the recovery of a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, videos, audio files, and emails, from different storage media such as hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and digital cameras. 2. Deep Scan Technology: Data Recovery Wizard Pro employs an advanced deep scan algorithm that thoroughly examines the storage device sector by sector, increasing the chances of finding even the most severely damaged files. 3. Preview before Recovery: Users can preview recoverable files before actually recovering them, ensuring that they are selecting the correct files for restoration. 4. Raw Recovery: In cases where file systems are corrupted or unrecognizable, the software offers a raw recovery mode, which scans the entire disk for known file signatures to recover data. 5. Partition Recovery: It can locate and recover lost or deleted partitions, making it possible to restore data from formatted or damaged drives. 6. Support for Various Devices: The software works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac operating systems and is compatible with numerous storage devices. 7. User-Friendly Interface: Data Recovery Wizard Pro features an intuitive interface that guides users through the recovery process step by step, making it suitable for both technical and non-technical users. With its robust capabilities and ease of use, Data Recovery Wizard Pro is a reliable choice for individuals and businesses seeking efficient data recovery solutions.

Data Recovery Wizard is one of the leading recovery programs in the present day. It has emerged as the top preference for numerous users across the globe, and it boasts an extensive capability to recover files, including corrupted PST files.

The reason it should be your prioritized PST repair tool is that it can restore lost or corrupted files in scenarios such as:

• Deleted files
• Files lost due to storage formatting
• Accidental deletion
• Virus attack

These are just a few scenarios it can assist with, but how does it actually recover Outlook data? It does so by retrieving file types such as:

• PST
• DBX
• EMLX

Whether in Outlook or Outlook Express, the Data Recovery Wizard's ability to retrieve these files can assist you in recovering your lost PST data. Moreover, it is largely free, and you can also recover other vital media types, such as documents, videos, photos, audio, and other files.

How to Recover Lost PST Files with the Aid of Data Recovery Wizard Tool

Now that we understand why it's your best choice for retrieving files, let's explore exactly how to recover PST files using the Data Recovery Wizard Software. Follow these steps: 1. **Download and Install the Software**: Start by visiting the official website of the Data Recovery Wizard Software and download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows or Mac). Install the software on your computer. 2. **Launch the Program**: Once the installation is complete, double-click on the program icon to launch the Data Recovery Wizard. You will typically see an intuitive interface with different recovery options. 3. **Select Recovery Mode**: Look for an option that specifically mentions PST file recovery or Outlook data recovery. Choose that mode to proceed with the process. 4. **Scan the PST File**: Next, you need to locate the PST file that you want to recover. If you know the exact location, you can directly browse to it. Otherwise, the software usually offers a 'Deep Scan' or ' Comprehensive Scan' option to search for lost or deleted PST files within your system. 5. **Initiate the Scanning Process**: After selecting the PST file or the drive where it was previously stored, initiate the scanning process. This may take some time depending on the size of the file and the depth of the scan. 6. **Preview and Select Files**: Once the scan is complete, the software will display a list of recoverable PST files. You can preview the content to ensure that the desired files are present before proceeding. 7. **Recover the Files**: Choose the files you want to recover, and click on the 'Recover' or 'Save' button. The software will then extract the selected PST files and save them to a new location on your computer. 8. **Import Recovered PST**: After the recovery process, you may need to import the recovered PST file into Microsoft Outlook. To do this, go to 'File' in Outlook, then 'Open & Export', and select 'Import/Export'. Choose 'Import from another program or file', then 'Outlook Data File (.pst)', and follow the on-screen instructions to import the recovered PST. Remember to always back up your important data regularly to avoid the need for recovery in the future.

Step 1. Select the drive or partition where you lost email files, and click "Scan".

Step 2. The software will immediately start a scanning process. Wait patiently until the scanning is finished. To quickly find the email files, click "Others" in the left panel. Next, search for PST files or Outlook files in the list of file types.

Step 3. Next, select the desired email files and click "Recover". Save the files to a different location rather than the original one.

As you can see, the tool effectively recovers your damaged PST files at no cost, making it an ideal choice for retrieving your essential data.

Top 5 Free PST Repair Tools

Let's get straight to the point and examine the top five options available today for recovering your files. How did we choose them? These five programs were selected based on user satisfaction, their quality, the availability of free usage, and their effectiveness in restoring a lost PST file.

While some are specifically designed for PST recovery, others are general-purpose data recovery tools. Without further delay, let's delve into and examine the top five PST repair tools available in 2022:

1. 1. Tools Email Recovery Wizard
2. 2. Stellar Repair - PST File Recovery Tool
3. 3. DataNumen Outlook Repair Tool
4. 4. Kernel for Outlook PST Repair Tool
5. 5. MS Inbox Repair Tool

1. Email Recovery Wizard Tools

Email Recovery is a specialized software designed specifically for retrieving lost emails. It has emerged as a top choice for numerous individuals who have either lost their PST (Personal Storage Table) files or encountered corruption issues with them. What precisely makes it an ideal solution for this problem?

Supports Microsoft Outlook, including versions 2010, 2007, 2003, 2002, 2000, 98, and 97 Displays a preview before recovery - facilitating selective recovery Restores corrupted or damaged PST files Provides an intuitive user interface (UI)

In addition to all these features, it also aids in recovering encrypted passwords. In essence, it is an all-encompassing tool for various types of recovery, making it a comprehensive PST repair solution.

Pros:

• Simplifies the recovery of PST files
• Restores lost or erased files
• Recovers corrupted or compromised PST files
• The free version offers the same functionality as the paid version

Cons:

• Paid versions don't offer much additional value
• The free version diminishes the appeal of the paid version

2. Stellar PST File Repair – PST File Recovery Software

Stellar is one of the premier providers of recovery tools, and their PST File Recovery software is no exception. This program is capable of assisting you in recovering various Outlook data, including:

• Emails, attachments, contacts, and calendars
• Damaged or corrupted PST files
• Recovering Outlook inbox

These features make this program yet another comprehensive solution. By offering tools to recover Outlook passwords, it also enables you to retrieve lost or missing emails. Furthermore, it allows you to eliminate duplicate emails to guarantee optimal performance of your Outlook inbox.

Pros: 1. Increased efficiency: Implementing automation can significantly boost productivity by reducing manual tasks, minimizing errors, and streamlining processes. 2. Cost savings: Automation often leads to reduced labor costs, lower error rates, and optimized resource utilization, resulting in overall cost savings for the organization. 3. Consistency: Automated systems consistently perform tasks according to pre-defined rules, ensuring uniformity and reliability in output. 4. 24/7 availability: Unlike human workers, automated systems can operate continuously without breaks or downtime, providing round-the-clock service. 5. Improved accuracy: Automation reduces the likelihood of human errors, leading to higher levels of accuracy in data processing, calculations, and decision-making. 6. Scalability: Automated processes can easily adapt to increasing workloads, allowing businesses to scale up or down as needed. 7. Enhanced customer experience: Automation can lead to faster response times, personalized interactions, and better service quality, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction. 8. Risk mitigation: By automating high-risk tasks or processes, organizations can minimize the potential for accidents, compliance violations, or security breaches. 9. Data analysis: Automation enables the collection and analysis of large amounts of data, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making. 10. Employee focus: By automating repetitive tasks, employees can shift their focus to more complex, creative, and strategic responsibilities, fostering professional growth and job satisfaction. Cons: 1. Initial investment: Implementing automation often requires significant upfront costs for software, hardware, and training. 2. Job displacement: Automation may lead to the replacement of human jobs, potentially causing unemployment or requiring workforce retraining. 3. Dependence on technology: Over-reliance on automation can create vulnerabilities if systems fail, necessitating backup plans and contingency measures. 4. Lack of flexibility: Automated systems might struggle with unstructured or unpredictable situations, which require human judgment and adaptability. 5. Training and adoption: Ensuring employees effectively adopt and understand new automated systems can be challenging and time-consuming. 6. Ethical concerns: The use of automation may raise ethical issues, such as algorithmic bias, privacy invasion, or the impact on social inequality. 7. Maintenance and updates: Automated systems need regular maintenance, updates, and monitoring to ensure optimal performance and prevent malfunctions. 8. Limited creativity: While automation excels in routine tasks, it may stifle creativity and innovation that often comes from human interaction and problem-solving. 9. Security risks: Automated systems can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, putting sensitive data and operations at risk. 10. Inflexible processes: Over-automation can lead to rigid processes that are difficult to modify, potentially hindering organizational agility.

• User-friendly interface
• File preview functionality
• Comprehensive PST file recovery

Cons:

• Somewhat expensive
• Limited free usage
• Inability to recover in extreme scenarios, such as deleted files or files infected with viruses

3. DataNumen Outlook Repair Tool

DataNumen Outlook Repair tool is yet another exceptional choice, boasting a user rating of 4.9. But does it live up to its reputation? Absolutely, as it stands as one of the most effective tools for restoring your PST files. Previously known as Advanced Outlook Repair, it facilitates a swift and comprehensive recovery of various files.

From retrieving emails, posts, folders, calendars, and events, it is one of the comprehensive programs available today. Moreover, it supports large-sized PST files as well.

Pros: 1. High-quality materials: The product is made from durable and robust materials, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear. 2. User-friendly design: Its intuitive interface and ergonomic design make it easy for users to operate and navigate, regardless of their technical proficiency. 3. Versatility: It offers a wide range of functions and features that cater to diverse needs, making it suitable for various purposes and applications. 4. Energy efficiency: With its low power consumption, the device helps save on electricity bills without compromising performance. 5. Excellent customer support: The manufacturer provides prompt and effective assistance to customers, addressing any queries or concerns promptly. 6. Affordable pricing: Despite its numerous features, the product is competitively priced, providing great value for money. 7. Positive user reviews: Many satisfied customers have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the product's reliability and satisfaction rate. 8. Easy setup: The installation process is straightforward, allowing users to start using the product quickly after purchase. 9. Regular software updates: The manufacturer releases regular updates to improve functionality and ensure compatibility with the latest technology. 10. Compact and portable: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use on the go, enhancing its convenience. Cons: 1. Limited compatibility: The product may not work seamlessly with all devices or operating systems, restricting its usability for some users. 2. No expandability: There might be no option to upgrade or add additional components, which could limit its future potential. 3. Average battery life: If it's a battery-powered device, the battery life might not be as long as desired, requiring frequent recharging. 4. Poor audio or video quality: In some cases, the audio or video output might not meet users' expectations in terms of clarity and resolution. 5. Slow loading times: Some users might experience slower-than-expected performance when accessing certain features or applications. 6. Lack of physical buttons: Relying solely on touch controls might not be ideal for everyone, especially those who prefer tactile feedback. 7. Limited warranty: The product's warranty period might be shorter than desired, leaving users with limited coverage for potential defects. 8. No offline functionality: The product may require an internet connection to function fully, which could be a drawback for users in areas with poor connectivity. 9. Heated device: During extended use, the product might heat up, which could be uncomfortable for some users. 10. Frequent software bugs: Users might encounter occasional software glitches or bugs that could impact their overall experience.

• Highly convenient
• Supports large PST file sizes

Cons:

• Somewhat expensive
• Outdated user interface design
• Has issues when recovering attached images, videos, etc.

4. Kernel for Outlook PST Repair Tool

The Kernel for PST Repair tool doesn't offer many additional features compared to the other tools on this list, but it is undoubtedly one of the most capable. What makes it a standout option? Users who are satisfied with it rate it 4.9 out of 5, indicating a recovery success rate of over 90%.

It's a user-friendly program equipped with numerous excellent features enabling you to comprehensively restore damaged or corrupted PST files. Moreover, in addition to Outlook, it also provides a variety of other options.

Pros: Advantages or positive aspects of something, often referred to when evaluating options or considering the benefits of a particular choice.

• Repair multiple PST files
• Very detailed UI
• Perhaps the quickest on this list

Cons:

• It might be confusing for new users
• The cheapest version will cost you $70

5. Microsoft Inbox Repair Tool

The MS Inbox Repair tool takes us to the last tool on this list, courtesy of none other than Microsoft itself. This program is undoubtedly one of the top choices, albeit it hasn't received an update in years.

However, given that it's from Microsoft, it's easily one of the most capable tools on this list. Moreover, it recovers files promptly and in an organized manner.

Pros: 1. Advantages or beneficial aspects 2. Positive features or characteristics 3. Merits or strengths 4. Points in favor 5. Upsides or positives

1. User-friendly
2. Adequately recovers data
3. Quick recovery process
4. Developed by Microsoft

Cons:

• Unable to recover in extreme scenarios
• Encounters issues in Windows 11

Conclusion

These are some of the top programs to assist you in recovering your corrupted PST files. We have examined the reasons for the damage and the software solutions that can aid in their recovery.

Although all these programs are reliable, opting for the one from Tools is your best choice. Not only does it excel with its free version, but it also provides more features than any other program.

PST Repair Tools FAQ 1. What is PST? PST stands for Personal Storage Table, which is a file format used by Microsoft Outlook to store emails, contacts, calendar entries, tasks, and other data. 2. Why do I need PST repair tools? PST files can become corrupted or damaged due to various reasons like virus attacks, sudden system shutdowns, oversized PST files, or software glitches. Repair tools help recover inaccessible or lost data from these damaged files. 3. How do PST repair tools work? These tools scan the corrupted PST file, identify the errors, and use advanced algorithms to fix them. They then extract the recoverable data and save it in a new, healthy PST file. 4. Are PST repair tools compatible with all versions of Outlook? Most repair tools support multiple Outlook versions, including Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and older. However, compatibility may vary, so it's essential to check before purchasing. 5. Can I preview the recovered data before saving it? Yes, many PST repair tools offer a preview feature that allows you to view the recovered items like emails, attachments, and other content before saving them. 6. Are these tools safe to use? Reputable PST repair tools are designed to be safe and non-destructive, meaning they don't alter the original damaged file during the repair process. It's crucial to choose a trusted and well-reviewed tool. 7. Is there a free version available? Some providers offer free trial versions of their PST repair tools, allowing you to scan and preview the recoverable data. However, to save the repaired data, you usually need to purchase the full version. 8. How long does the repair process take? The time taken depends on factors such as the size of the PST file, the extent of corruption, and the speed of your computer. It can range from a few minutes to several hours. 9. Can I repair encrypted or password-protected PST files? Some advanced PST repair tools can handle encrypted or password-protected files if you provide the correct password. If the password is forgotten, the recovery might not be possible. 10. Is it possible to recover permanently deleted items using these tools? In some cases, permanently deleted items may still be recoverable if they haven't been overwritten. However, the chances of recovery depend on the specific circumstances and the tool being used. 11. Do I need technical expertise to use these tools? Most PST repair tools have user-friendly interfaces, making them easy to use even for non-technical users. However, following the provided instructions carefully is essential. 12. Can these tools repair Outlook OST files too? While some tools specialize in PST repair, others also support OST (Offline Storage Table) files, which are used for offline access to Outlook data in Exchange environments. 13. What should I do to prevent PST corruption in the future? Regularly backup your PST files, keep your Outlook and antivirus software up-to-date, and avoid overloading your PST with excessive data to minimize the risk of corruption.

Reading this article is sure to spark some questions in your mind. If you have any inquiries, this FAQ section might provide answers to some of them:

How do I fix a corrupted PST file?

As mentioned in the article, you can download one of the tools or utilize the Email Recovery Wizard to swiftly repair corrupted PST files.

How do I resolve the issue 'PST file is not an Outlook data file'?

The tools mentioned throughout support PST files. In extreme cases, only specialized tools like Email Recovery can assist in recovering and repairing them.

How do I locate a missing PST file?

Whether through using the MS Inbox Repair tool or utilities like Data Recovery Wizard, it can assist you in retrieving deleted or lost PST files.